“Pardon our mess, and come on in!” It’s been nearly four months since record rainfall flooded much of Broward County, and people and businesses are still recovering and rebuilding, including Broward House.

They didn’t need to wait for the water to recede to know their building would be a complete gut job. After weeks of first removing the waterlogged waste then waiting on permits, they’re ready to start construction. And they’re inviting the public to see their progress.

“We’re starting to rebuild, and it’s a great time for people to see and get involved,” Jana Jaffe, Broward House Community Relations and Events Manager, said.

They’re holding Construction, Cocktails & Mocktails on Aug. 10 at 5:30 p.m. in their wall-less building at 417 SW 18th Ct. It’s a chance for supporters to visit and see first hand how much damage was done and how far they’ve come.

Now, their building from the 1950s is getting upgrades, as the flood forced the organization to undertake renovations they’ve delayed for years.

“Our money has always been put into our clients who need it more than anything,” Jaffe said.

The tile was old, but fine. Doors were dated and worn, but they worked. The mission of Broward House is to help people facing health challenges, including HIV.

As devastating as the flood was to facilities, it was even worse for clients.

“At first, it was rough. They’re doing really well now. They saw we will never let them down come hell or high water, literally.”

This pause for a community progress report is inspiring for the community, clients, and the staff.

“It’s helped all of us grow. We meet some clients with horrendous challenges and that have been through so much. We will figure it out. We always do.”

For more information, visit BrowardHouse.org/Donate.